Al Duhail SC, a two-time champion in the Asian Men’s Club League Handball Championship, scored a dominant 42-27 victory over Ahli Sidab Club from Oman in their opening match. This tournament, featuring nine top clubs from Asia, serves as a qualifier for the IHF Men’s Handball Club World Championship in Egypt next year. Al Duhail’s win put them at the top of Group B, followed by Khaleej Club from Saudi Arabia, Kazma SC from Kuwait, Sanat Mes Kerman from Iran, and Ahli Sidab.
The captain of the Al Duhail handball team, Ahmed Maddi, expressed his joy after the team’s successful start to the tournament. Maddi highlighted the importance of winning the opening match to secure their chances of progressing to the next round and being in contention for the championship title. He credited the team’s thorough preparation and strategic planning for their impressive performance against Ahli Sidab, securing their first two points in the tournament.
Having previously won the championship in 2018 and 2021, Maddi is confident in Al Duhail’s ability to compete for the title once again. Looking ahead, the team is preparing for their upcoming match against Kazma SC, scheduled as their second fixture in Group B. In Group A of the tournament, Sharjah SC from the UAE defeated Al Kuwait SC from Kuwait in a thrilling 30-29 match, while Khaleej Club secured a 36-24 victory over Kazma SC.
The tournament kicked off with a draw between hosts Al Rayyan and Al Shabab from Bahrain, while Kazma SC defeated Ahli Sidab Club and Khaleej Club won against Sanat Mes Kerman. The competition will see further matches in Group A between Al Rayyan, Sharjah SC, Al Shabab, and Al Kuwait SC, as well as in Group B with Ahli Sidab Club playing against Sanat Mes Kerman. The event, serving as a qualifying event for the IHF Men’s Handball Club World Championship Egypt 2025, is scheduled to conclude on November 23.
